Council creates position to help victims

Ashford Borough Council cabinet members last week agreed to secure funding for a permanent domestic abuse co-ordinator.

The move came after figures from the annual domestic abuse report revealed an increasing demand on services and more people visiting the One Stop Shop drop-in centre.

The independent domestic vio- lence advisor received about 60 referrals each quarter, of which 91% were helped and protected.

Cllr Brad Bradford, portfolio holder for wellbeing and safety, said: “We are fortunate to have many excellent services committed to preventing domestic abuse and I’d like to thank all those involved in this important work.

“As a council we will continue to play our part in supporting the work of the Ashford Domestic Abuse Forum by making the crucial post of domestic abuse coordinator permanent and championing their work.

“We can ensure victims are supported to build a better future for themselves and their families, which could mean the difference between life and death.”

The forum is now looking at building services to reach victims in rural communities.

The One Stop Shop is held every Tuesday between 9.30am and 12.30pm at the Willow Centre in Brookfield Road, South Ashford, and offers free advice and support from a range of agencies to help victims of abuse. Go to domesticabuseservices.org.uk

Elizabeth Tweed is stepping down as chairman of Ashford Domestic Abuse Forum after four years with the charity

Cllr Brad Bradford